Super Contra (Japan)

Game Overview
Super Contra came out on the Nintendo Entertainment System in 1988, developed and published by Konami. It was part of that wave of late 80s action games that pushed the hardware, offering a more intense and visually detailed sequel to the arcade hit.

You control a commando, Bill Rizer or Lance Bean, fighting through alien-infested territories. The main objective is to survive the run and gun stages, clearing each screen of enemies before advancing. Signature mechanics include picking up power-up capsules that change your weapon, like the rapid-fire laser or the devastating spread shot, and navigating multi-plane stages that scroll vertically and horizontally. The pacing is relentless, and the difficulty is punishing, demanding quick reflexes and smart weapon choices. It feels like a constant, exhilarating scramble for survival where one mistake can end your run.